When to plant Cardoon in Lamar County, AL
In Lamar County, Cardoon is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 6–April 20 for an 120–150-day harvest, finishing well before the November 6 first frost.
When to Plant Cardoon in Lamar County, AL
Cardoon is a large thistle relative of the artichoke, grown for its edible leaf stalks. It has dramatic silvery foliage and makes a striking ornamental as well.
Lamar County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and the first fall frost is November 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 228 days.
At an elevation of 69 feet, Lamar County receives approximately 62 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Cardoon during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cardoon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cardoon root diseases.
Lamar County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Cardoon
Cardoon needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Cardoon Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lamar County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cardoon Planting Timeline — Lamar County, AL
Cardoon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Harvest | August 10 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
120–150 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
228 days in Lamar County
Growing Tips for Lamar County
Blanch stalks by wrapping with cardboard or tying leaves together 3-4 weeks before harvest. Provide deep, rich soil and consistent moisture. Protect from hard frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Cardoon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cardoon in Lamar County, AL?
Lamar County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 23. Plan your Cardoon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lamar County, AL?
Lamar County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and first fall frost is November 6.
When should I plant Cardoon in Lamar County, AL?
In Lamar County, AL, plant Cardoon after the last frost (around March 23) and before the first frost (around November 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lamar County, AL for Cardoon?
Lamar County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Cardoon grows reliably in zones 7a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cardoon grow in Lamar County's climate?
Yes — Cardoon grows well in Lamar County's temperate climate. Lamar County averages a 228-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 23 and first frost around November 6.
Your Lamar County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lamar County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.